Week One Tuesday: I have a good idea as to what I want to do. I want to do something on "Working dogs in society" I don't know how far I want to refine it yet. I want to have a look at police dogs, guide dogs, therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, dogs as pets, guard dogs(including those brought to work by tradies to guard the tools) and sniffer dogs. From there I will probably choose the one i'm most interested in and focus on it. I was thinking that for my interview if I chose guide dogs I could go the the Royal Society For the Blind I have been there before so I can use some of my personal knowledge. Also if I choose dogs as pets and their part in society I could interview lots more people who would have more of an opinion. Not everyone likes dogs and pet dogs, especially untrained dogs can cause havoc.I believe finding out people's opinions on dogs in society would be interesting and keep me wanting me to work. I could do it on people's thoughts of all dogs in society including police dogs, guide dogs etc. Some people might think police dogs and guard dogs are an unnecessary danger or that sniffer dogs are a nuisance.
I had a look at the 'wonder wheel' on google the following image is of some of my results.
Friday: I think I really want to do my project on peoples opinion on dogs in society including both working dogs and pets. From this I want to learn some of the specifics on working dogs. My future career aspirations include working with animals, dogs in particular. I have recently been thinking about becoming a dog obedience instructor. All working dogs are trained and if I want to pursue this career then I want to find out everything I can. This includes the different types of training. For example Guide dogs have different training to Police dogs, pets even more so (if any training.)
Police dog in training
Guide dog in training
These two images are a good example of how different the training of two types of working dogs are.
Week Two Monday: I have collected some information on police dogs,search and rescue dogs, guide dogs, therapy dogs and guard dogs. So far I've found it really interesting and I definately want to incorporate it in my further research. I've also looked at some articles on the ABC website. I found some on working dogs but for some reason most of teh articles seemed to be based around feral dogs in aboriginal communities.And the articles I did find had very little to say.
Tuesday: Today I am looking on the EBSCO host website. Some of the interesting and relevent articles I have found so far are:
For my interview i'm thinking of talking to a dog obedience trainer whether it be a guide dog trainer or a normal trainer for everyday dogs. I would ask them about the benefits of trained dogs in society and why they think its important. I'm planning on doing a survey that asks people about their view of dogs in general and the kind of role they play in peoples everyday lives. Then moving on to ask them questions specifically directed at working dogs in society. If the obedience trainer interview doesn't work I might call the police or the Royal Society For The Blind to get some direct information on the kind of training their dogs undergo. I could also interview people about the way dogs have influenced their lives maybe during childhood and if I interview an older person I could get their opinion on how dogs where viewed when they were younger to how they are today.
Thursday: This week I have gotten quite a bit done and have coe up with plenty of ideas to get me started. It is now important that I refine my ideas to a stage where I can use them, they are all sort of general at the moment. I'm happy with the way Im progressing and I believe that as long as I keep going the way I am I will successful in Research Project. I'm very interested in my topic so I'm looking forward to get right into it. Last year I didnt know much about the topic I was researching and I was in a group so I couldnt go in a direction I was satisfied with. I have to say EBSCO host is quite helpful with giving me up to date knowledge on my subject. What I plan on doing now is putting all my ideas on a mind map or something just so I know what directions I could possibly go in. I think it would help organise my thoughts and I might be able to come up with more or better ideas. Once I've done this I think i'll find it easier to know what to research and where to get my primary source from.
Week Three Tuesday: Yesterday we went through a couple of the research tools on Moodle, the main one we looked at was the CRAP test. This is a way to evaluate if a website is credible or not. Currency- e.g. How current is the information? How recently has it been updated? Reliability- e.g. Is it accurate? What kind of information is included? Authority- e.g Who is the creater or author? Are they reputable? Purpose- e.g. Is the purpose clearly stated? Is this fact or opinion?
I constructed a mind map and I was right it has helped me get everything I can think of down in writing. From here I will be able to chose which direction/s to go in. It will also help me write my research proposal.
Research Proposal The topic I have chosen for my year twelve research project is trained dogs in society. My hypothesis at this stage is 'All dogs should be trained'. I want to look at the benefits of every dog at least having basic obedience training. In turn I want to find out how untrained dogs are a danger/nusiance to people in society. This hypothesis also includes working dogs such as police dogs and guide dogs. I dont believe all dogs need such extensive training as working dogs but they definately play a role in my project.
The way I am going to get this information is by conducting a survey and talking to people. By conducting a survey I will be able to get a wide range of opinions and then be able to use it in my report.
I’m mostly going to get ordinary people to fill out the survey because when it comes down to basics its everyday people who are affected. I will also talk to a dog obedience trainer and see how they think all dogs benefit from training. Google and newspaper articles will help me collect the information I need. I have also been given books and a dvd on positive dog training and dog body language which intertwines with dog training.
I’m going to get people at school to fill it out including both teachers and students, I’m also going to try and get people from both my dad and stepmums work to fill some out. This way I will have a varied range in age and different professions.
I think I will get a lot out of this topic, I am very interested in animals in general but dogs especially. By doing this I can find out how others feel and if trained dogs really do have a positive effect on society. It will also be interesting to see how big an issue people think training dogs is.
The two capabilities that suit my topic are learning and personal develpoment. Learning because no matter what i'm going to learn a lot of new things about my topic. And personal development because being a dog obedience instructor is something i'm very interseted in pursuing a career as.
Week Four Monday: I looked at some ways in which my two capabilities link to the research processes. Capabilities for Learning § Accessing information from a wide range of print, media, electronic, and human resources. § Understanding and recalling information. § Critical analysis of sources, issues, and perspectives. § Acknowledgment of sources. § Organisation of information. § Research methods. § Note-taking, record-keeping. § Problem-solving. § Reflection and evaluation. § Ways of knowing — intuitive, logical, authoritative, factual, practical. § Analytical and critical thinking skills. § Application of knowledge and skills. § Codes of research ethics.
Capabilities for Personal Development § Enjoying the opportunity to develop new knowledge and learning. § Taking risks to be innovative, creative, and imaginative. § Identifying and exploring one’s own particular learning strengths. § Exploring an area of personal interest and developing skills in that area. § Showing organisational skills. § Building independent learning skills – reviewing and planning personal development; developing purpose, direction, and decision-making skills. § Demonstrating resilience, perseverance, and flexibility. § Showing confidence as a researcher, thinker, craftsperson, writer, or speaker.
I have also been visiting dog obedience websites some include:
Sitdropstay- http://www.sitdropstay.com.au/, "we are committed to providing the most progressive and effective dog training available in Australia today. To always have an honest and compassionate approach and honour the spirit in all beings" (ph:call-1300 306 887, mobile- 0416 508 549, Email: admin@sitdropstay.com.au)
All breeds dog training Adeliade- http://allbreedsdogtraining.com/, "Remember you are paying for results not for the number of lessons" (ph:Karen-0438555518)
Bark Busters- http://www.barkbusters.com.au/adelaidesouth.htm, "Bark Busters offer a unique ‘written, lifetime guarantee’, which means that I will always be there to provide any on-going assistance you and your dog might need to achieve and maintain a fun and rewarding relationship at every stage of your dog’s long and happy life." (ph:Jane Whitehead- 1800 067 710 Email: on site)
Week Five Tuesday: ---FIVE WHYS---
Why do we train dogs?
Beacause when trained they make excellent pets and are useful in society
Why do they make excellent pets and are useful in society?
Because they are loyal and love to be part of a family environment. They are useful in society because they can do lots of things people can't.
Why are dogs loyal and love being part of a family and why can they do things people can't?
Because dogs are pack animals and are happy in groups. Dogs can smell 100,000 times better than humans so they can sniff out things like drugs and can be used to intimidate people like police dogs.
Why are dogs pack animals and why are police dogs intimidating?
Beacause they are descendants of wolves who hunted in packs to survive. On their own they weren't able to bring down large prey and they like being a part of a structured group so they know where they stand. Police dogs are intimidating because they are usually big breeds the most popular being the German Shepherd which are trained to take down a criminal with ease and they are much faster than a police officer meaning the criminal is more likely to be captured. They can also sniff out people who are hiding.
Why is the German Shepherd the breed of choice for police dogs?
Because they are incredibly loyal, are aggressive but can be controlled through training and are very agile meaning they can jump fences and get in through windows. They are big dogs with excellent bite power so are perfect for stopping criminals. Sometimes a criminal only has to hear the bark of the dog or see it and they automatically give themselves up.
The sort of questions I want to put in my surveys are something like:
"Do you have a dog? -if no go to question 5?"
"Has you dog undertaken dog obedience traing- by you or a proffessional?"
"What have they been trained to do?"
"Why did you want your dog trained?"
"Should all dogs be trained?-yes/no why"
"Do you ever feel anxious when passing a dog in the street that don't look like he/she behaves?"
"How would you describe a police dog- unnecessary danger, reduce crime, other?"
"What are the benefits of having sniffer dogs at the airport?"
"Do you think guide dogs have become an everyday part of society?"
"Do you believe guard dogs are a neccessary source of protection?"
"If you got lost or trapped would you feel better knowing a search and rescue dog was looking for you?-why"
"Do you think a dog guarding a tradesmans tools would be enough of a deterent to stop a thief?"
"How important are each working dogs?"
Thursday: I have someone in mind for my interview. Her name is Megan Molloy and she runs dog obedience classes called Canine Interaction. I am looking at becoming an instructor myself and I emailed her a couple of weeks ago and she said she was looking for an assistant so last Thursday I went for a look and now every week I get to go down and start getting trained up. So she is the perfect person to interview because I have numerous ways to contact her including her personal email which was one way I was looking at asking her my questions. The sorts of questions I could ask include:
How long have you been a dog trainer?
What intially got you intersted in becoming a trainer?
Have you always been interested in working with dogs?
What keeps you motivated to train dogs?
Who do you think dog training specifically benefits?
Do you think all dogs should be trained at least in basic obedience?
Why is that?
What do you think is the biggest issue people have with untrained dogs?
Do you think untrained dogs are a danger to society, what being the main concern?
Survey questions(either get her to fill out a print out or ask her the questions verbally)
I could ask her mum, Karen who is also a dog obedience trainer.-more inclined to email
Week Six Monday: Tonight I will email Megan and hopefully her mum, asking the above questions and a copy of the survey. By emailing them I will get my primary source and some valid information directly involved with my topic. Both have at least twelve years experience so I'm sure they will each have some very interesting answers.
Tuesday: I am taping three different shows on television at the moment to get some more information, the shows a send in the dogs, its me or the dog and ceaser milan (a dog trainer). They are all dog training shows and show the benefits of dog training and the problems that have arisen by negelecting to train them. In an episode of Its me or the dog it showed the dangers of an aggressive dog in society.And how its not just dangerous but frustrating for both the owner and the neighbours- especially those with their own dogs.
Week Seven Tuesday: I have been watching ceaser milan and the more I watch it the more I dont really like his methods, he gets results though which is what I'm most interrested in. The difference between the before and after is astounding it shows how beneficial a well trained dog really is. Victoria from Its Me or the Dog has the best methods because its through positive reinforcement. Which is the way Megan my dog obedience mentor does it. I have a book that im reading called 'Positive Dog Training' by Pamela Dennison. I'm reading it as part of my research as well as for my future career as a dog trainer.
Friday: Basically right now I need to concentrate on interviewing Megan which I have asked her to do next thursday night. I'm going to email her the questions in advance because that way she can be prepared and i can get the best possible response. Im going to use my ipod touch which has a voice recording device.
Week Eight
Tuesday: On Thursday I will be interviewing Megan. I will email her the questions tonight. So far my survey is'nt working out that well because only six people have filled it in and there are a lot more than six people in the class. I think all the names of the people who have done the survey should be put on the board and then evertyone should spend a lesson filling them all out.
Clicker Training
Week Nine Monday: I have done my interview with megan and have the recording on my IPod. I asked her several questions and she gave me some interesting an insightful answers.
Week Ten Monday: I'm not entirely sure what i'll be doing next but right now i'm trying to get surveys done, and I know I have another discussion coming up soon. I might start planning what I'm going to write in my report just so I'm at least a little bit prepared.
Friday: I am now working on my research evaluation and working towards creating a draft.(1500 words +pictures +graph +map etc.) An outline of which i have to include is:
1. research processes used e.g. books, interviews, internet, ebsco host, news, magazines and experts.
2. you plus chosen capabilities
3. aspects of outcome and relevance to you plus others.
NOTES:
1. I have used the internet to find out things on dog training and types of working dogs and what they do. I have read a couple of books on positive dog training and dog body language. (this helps you identify dangerous situations) I am in the process of conducting a survey. I have interviewed a dog trainer. I have also looked on ebsco host to find articles on my topic.
2. I have chosen my two capabilities: learning and personal development. I have learning because no matter what i'm learning something new. And personal development because I want to become a dog trainer myself and everything I learn through doing this project will help me in the future.
3. I want to be a trainer-thats how the outcome affects me. By doing this project I want to obtain new and recent information on dogs, their part in society and how training benefits people. For others it would be to help people get a better understanding of dogs, what they are capable of and more on training.
I am slightly frustrated because not enough people are filling in my survey, so right now it isnt really adding much to my project. I am unsure how valuable the information is because some of the answeres I got arent really that useful. My next plan is to take them to my work and put them out for customers to fill out but I'll have to ask for permission first. I work at Northside Pet Superstore so the people who come in are generally animal/dog lovers so i should get some good responses. Im working saturday so I'll ask then. But right now I'm pretty happy with my progress. I'm a bit confused still as to what i speciically do next but i have a general idea, i think i'll just ask some more questions to clarify.
Week Eleven Monday:
The following link is to my outcome DRAFT.
Thursday:
I have completed a draft of my outcome. I am currently working on my reference list, going back and making sure all my images and EBSCO Host articles are referenced correctly. I will then upload a the file as a word document at the bottom of this page. I am going to beinng doing a days work experience at Holdfast dog centre, at times they can have 60 to 70 dogs at a time on the premesis. This will be a good way for me to see a range of dogs with a range of training levels. It wil tie into aspects of my project nicely.
Week Twelve
Monday:
I have done my day at Holdfast and it was very interesting. I saw dogs simply being dogs. But the part that is relevant to me is seeing how the better trained they are the easier they are to handle. One rule is that no dog gets on your lap or jump up for a pat unless it sits first, it's the same with going in and out the gate. This teaches dogs to be more calm when approaching people because their automatic response will then be to sit. Another rule is that all dogs need to be comfortable with being held by their collars. This means its easy to get the dog to go where its supposed to. e.g. there's a seperate area for dogs that are getting too boisterous and to get them through the gate they are led by the collar. If a dog is uncomfortable with this it can turn into a dangerous situation. Whilst I was there a border collie named Billy got too excited and wasnt handling being around so many dogs. My job was then to put him on a lead and walk him around. I had to make sure I walked him away when he became unsettled. I did this by reading his body language. when he looked stressed because a dog was too close or annoying him I would call him away. This would have proved difficult if he wasnt trained. As soon as I called his name he would look at me and snap out of his behaviour to walk with me. He would also sit when I told him to. This way when a dog was getting close I could tell him to sit and get him to focus on me instead. This would be very hard to do with an untrained dog.
Plan:
*Print out emails to and from Megan.
*Upload interview with Megan.
*Complete reference list (below) so far.
*Go through sheets in blue folder and see exactly what I need.
So Far...
- Nine Ebsco Host articles
- Interview with Megan Molloy-(dog trainer)
- Day at Holdfast dog centre
- Read books on training and dog body language
- Draft of Outcome
- Mind map
- Parts of reference list
- Wonder Wheel
- Survey
- Looked at research tools on Moodle-(e.g. CRAP test)
- Pictures and logos
- Reseach Proposal
- Five Capabilities
- Watched television shows
Week Thirteen Tuesday: I have changed my Hypothesis to :“Trained dogs are useful and benefit society”
This way I can incorporate all the information I've gathered on working dogs and fit it into my research. For my Outcome I am thinking about presenting my key findings on poster paper, with images and writing.Iwould have four posters, one for each guiding question. This way I can be creative and not have to write an essay. For my evaluation I will write one just to keep my eductaion options open. e.g
Week One
Tuesday: I have a good idea as to what I want to do. I want to do something on "Working dogs in society" I don't know how far I want to refine it yet. I want to have a look at police dogs, guide dogs, therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, dogs as pets, guard dogs(including those brought to work by tradies to guard the tools) and sniffer dogs. From there I will probably choose the one i'm most interested in and focus on it. I was thinking that for my interview if I chose guide dogs I could go the the Royal Society For the Blind I have been there before so I can use some of my personal knowledge. Also if I choose dogs as pets and their part in society I could interview lots more people who would have more of an opinion. Not everyone likes dogs and pet dogs, especially untrained dogs can cause havoc.I believe finding out people's opinions on dogs in society would be interesting and keep me wanting me to work. I could do it on people's thoughts of all dogs in society including police dogs, guide dogs etc. Some people might think police dogs and guard dogs are an unnecessary danger or that sniffer dogs are a nuisance.
I had a look at the 'wonder wheel' on google the following image is of some of my results.
Friday: I think I really want to do my project on peoples opinion on dogs in society including both working dogs and pets. From this I want to learn some of the specifics on working dogs. My future career aspirations include working with animals, dogs in particular. I have recently been thinking about becoming a dog obedience instructor. All working dogs are trained and if I want to pursue this career then I want to find out everything I can. This includes the different types of training. For example Guide dogs have different training to Police dogs, pets even more so (if any training.)
These two images are a good example of how different the training of two types of working dogs are.
Week Two
Monday: I have collected some information on police dogs,search and rescue dogs, guide dogs, therapy dogs and guard dogs. So far I've found it really interesting and I definately want to incorporate it in my further research. I've also looked at some articles on the ABC website. I found some on working dogs but for some reason most of teh articles seemed to be based around feral dogs in aboriginal communities.And the articles I did find had very little to say.
Tuesday: Today I am looking on the EBSCO host website. Some of the interesting and relevent articles I have found so far are:
> "It's a dogs life" - http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?hid=9&sid=3e63683c-4d1f-4a94-9a0b-dbfdc1df8734%40sessionmgr10&vid=3&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=anh&AN=8745941
(This article was interesting because it shows how people have modified dogs looks and characteristics to suit their own wants and needs. Some of these changes have not helped at all but in some way benefited people more than the dogs themselves)
> "Uno earns therapy-dog certification" - http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?hid=9&sid=3e63683c-4d1f-4a94-9a0b-dbfdc1df8734%40sessionmgr10&vid=4
(I found this article relevent because it gave examples of different organisations that specialise in dog training and giving people aid in the form of a service dogs)
> "Healing Hounds" - http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?hid=9&sid=3e63683c-4d1f-4a94-9a0b-dbfdc1df8734%40sessionmgr10&vid=3&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=anh&AN=21487335
(This shows the benefits of working dogs specifically for people with a mental illness, this is yet another way in which dogs are useful in society)
> "Drug sniffer dogs working in gippsland schools" - http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?hid=9&sid=3e63683c-4d1f-4a94-9a0b-dbfdc1df8734%40sessionmgr10&vid=4&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=anh&AN=P6S060474398106
(This article shows the range of uses sniffer dogs have and that their not just for airports, they can be used anywhere that drugs can be found and do an excellent job at discovering the substances from the public)
> "Pitbull found near highway left for dead" - http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?hid=9&sid=3e63683c-4d1f-4a94-9a0b-dbfdc1df8734%40sessionmgr10&vid=4&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=anh&AN=6FP0471680707
(This speaks of the cruelty people can inflict on dogs and that there are two kinds of characters, the peopel who cause teh damage and the people who do their best to stop it. It shows the striking contrast between the two types of people)
> "Training rescued dogs to become the rescuers" - http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?hid=9&sid=3e63683c-4d1f-4a94-9a0b-dbfdc1df8734%40sessionmgr10&vid=4&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=anh&AN=J0E022251014109
(This is something I found interesting because their are so many dogs that get put down because they are unable to find a place they belong. Getting dogs from shelters and helping them fit into society shows both the compassion people have for dogs and gives them a purpose in society we can always use. This benefits everyone)
> "Kool K-9" - http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?hid=9&sid=3e63683c-4d1f-4a94-9a0b-dbfdc1df8734%40sessionmgr10&vid=4&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=anh&AN=1772386
(This article is perfect for my research because it shows both someones attitude towards dogs and about training them to become a major part of society)
>"Prisoners may help train mobility dogs" - http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?hid=9&sid=3e63683c-4d1f-4a94-9a0b-dbfdc1df8734%40sessionmgr10&vid=7&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=anh&AN=TDP070925A00323165992-AV
(This article is relevent because it is about training dogs and finding new creative ways of getting more opportunities to find handlers, meaning moer dogs wil be available to the public)
> "Something to chew on" - http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?hid=9&sid=3e63683c-4d1f-4a94-9a0b-dbfdc1df8734%40sessionmgr10&vid=8&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=anh&AN=SYD-5H1FT1YYO0K6AMKEATF
(I found this article interesting because it shows peoples support for dogs in particular guide dogs. It shows great dedication and appreciation for the dogs that serve us in society)
For my interview i'm thinking of talking to a dog obedience trainer whether it be a guide dog trainer or a normal trainer for everyday dogs. I would ask them about the benefits of trained dogs in society and why they think its important. I'm planning on doing a survey that asks people about their view of dogs in general and the kind of role they play in peoples everyday lives. Then moving on to ask them questions specifically directed at working dogs in society. If the obedience trainer interview doesn't work I might call the police or the Royal Society For The Blind to get some direct information on the kind of training their dogs undergo. I could also interview people about the way dogs have influenced their lives maybe during childhood and if I interview an older person I could get their opinion on how dogs where viewed when they were younger to how they are today.
Thursday: This week I have gotten quite a bit done and have coe up with plenty of ideas to get me started. It is now important that I refine my ideas to a stage where I can use them, they are all sort of general at the moment. I'm happy with the way Im progressing and I believe that as long as I keep going the way I am I will successful in Research Project. I'm very interested in my topic so I'm looking forward to get right into it. Last year I didnt know much about the topic I was researching and I was in a group so I couldnt go in a direction I was satisfied with. I have to say EBSCO host is quite helpful with giving me up to date knowledge on my subject. What I plan on doing now is putting all my ideas on a mind map or something just so I know what directions I could possibly go in. I think it would help organise my thoughts and I might be able to come up with more or better ideas. Once I've done this I think i'll find it easier to know what to research and where to get my primary source from.
Week Three
Tuesday: Yesterday we went through a couple of the research tools on Moodle, the main one we looked at was the CRAP test. This is a way to evaluate if a website is credible or not.
Currency- e.g. How current is the information? How recently has it been updated?
Reliability- e.g. Is it accurate? What kind of information is included?
Authority- e.g Who is the creater or author? Are they reputable?
Purpose- e.g. Is the purpose clearly stated? Is this fact or opinion?
I constructed a mind map and I was right it has helped me get everything I can think of down in writing. From here I will be able to chose which direction/s to go in. It will also help me write my research proposal.
Research Proposal
The topic I have chosen for my year twelve research project is trained dogs in society. My hypothesis at this stage is 'All dogs should be trained'. I want to look at the benefits of every dog at least having basic obedience training. In turn I want to find out how untrained dogs are a danger/nusiance to people in society. This hypothesis also includes working dogs such as police dogs and guide dogs. I dont believe all dogs need such extensive training as working dogs but they definately play a role in my project.
The way I am going to get this information is by conducting a survey and talking to people. By conducting a survey I will be able to get a wide range of opinions and then be able to use it in my report.
I’m mostly going to get ordinary people to fill out the survey because when it comes down to basics its everyday people who are affected. I will also talk to a dog obedience trainer and see how they think all dogs benefit from training. Google and newspaper articles will help me collect the information I need. I have also been given books and a dvd on positive dog training and dog body language which intertwines with dog training.
I’m going to get people at school to fill it out including both teachers and students, I’m also going to try and get people from both my dad and stepmums work to fill some out. This way I will have a varied range in age and different professions.
I think I will get a lot out of this topic, I am very interested in animals in general but dogs especially. By doing this I can find out how others feel and if trained dogs really do have a positive effect on society. It will also be interesting to see how big an issue people think training dogs is.
The two capabilities that suit my topic are learning and personal develpoment. Learning because no matter what i'm going to learn a lot of new things about my topic. And personal development because being a dog obedience instructor is something i'm very interseted in pursuing a career as.
Week Four
Monday: I looked at some ways in which my two capabilities link to the research processes.
Capabilities for Learning
§ Accessing information from a wide range of print, media, electronic, and human resources.
§ Understanding and recalling information.
§ Critical analysis of sources, issues, and perspectives.
§ Acknowledgment of sources.
§ Organisation of information.
§ Research methods.
§ Note-taking, record-keeping.
§ Problem-solving.
§ Reflection and evaluation.
§ Ways of knowing — intuitive, logical, authoritative, factual, practical.
§ Analytical and critical thinking skills.
§ Application of knowledge and skills.
§ Codes of research ethics.
Capabilities for Personal Development
§ Enjoying the opportunity to develop new knowledge and learning.
§ Taking risks to be innovative, creative, and imaginative.
§ Identifying and exploring one’s own particular learning strengths.
§ Exploring an area of personal interest and developing skills in that area.
§ Showing organisational skills.
§ Building independent learning skills – reviewing and planning personal development; developing purpose, direction, and decision-making skills.
§ Demonstrating resilience, perseverance, and flexibility.
§ Showing confidence as a researcher, thinker, craftsperson, writer, or speaker.
I have also been visiting dog obedience websites some include:
Sitdropstay- http://www.sitdropstay.com.au/, "we are committed to providing the most progressive and effective dog training available in Australia today. To always have an honest and compassionate approach and honour the spirit in all beings" (ph:call-1300 306 887, mobile- 0416 508 549, Email: admin@sitdropstay.com.au)
Metro mutt- http://www.metromutt.com.au/, "Your dog deserves it" (ph:Amanda-0410 478 832, Email: enquiries@metromutt.com.au)
All breeds dog training Adeliade- http://allbreedsdogtraining.com/, "Remember you are paying for results not for the number of lessons" (ph:Karen-0438555518)
Bark Busters- http://www.barkbusters.com.au/adelaidesouth.htm, "Bark Busters offer a unique ‘written, lifetime guarantee’, which means that I will always be there to provide any on-going assistance you and your dog might need to achieve and maintain a fun and rewarding relationship at every stage of your dog’s long and happy life." (ph:Jane Whitehead- 1800 067 710 Email: on site)
Week Five
Tuesday: ---FIVE WHYS---
- Why do we train dogs?
Beacause when trained they make excellent pets and are useful in society- Why do they make excellent pets and are useful in society?
Because they are loyal and love to be part of a family environment. They are useful in society because they can do lots of things people can't.- Why are dogs loyal and love being part of a family and why can they do things people can't?
Because dogs are pack animals and are happy in groups. Dogs can smell 100,000 times better than humans so they can sniff out things like drugs and can be used to intimidate people like police dogs.- Why are dogs pack animals and why are police dogs intimidating?
Beacause they are descendants of wolves who hunted in packs to survive. On their own they weren't able to bring down large prey and they like being a part of a structured group so they know where they stand. Police dogs are intimidating because they are usually big breeds the most popular being the German Shepherd which are trained to take down a criminal with ease and they are much faster than a police officer meaning the criminal is more likely to be captured. They can also sniff out people who are hiding.- Why is the German Shepherd the breed of choice for police dogs?
Because they are incredibly loyal, are aggressive but can be controlled through training and are very agile meaning they can jump fences and get in through windows. They are big dogs with excellent bite power so are perfect for stopping criminals. Sometimes a criminal only has to hear the bark of the dog or see it and they automatically give themselves up.The sort of questions I want to put in my surveys are something like:
"Do you have a dog? -if no go to question 5?"
"Has you dog undertaken dog obedience traing- by you or a proffessional?"
"What have they been trained to do?"
"Why did you want your dog trained?"
"Should all dogs be trained?-yes/no why"
"Do you ever feel anxious when passing a dog in the street that don't look like he/she behaves?"
"How would you describe a police dog- unnecessary danger, reduce crime, other?"
"What are the benefits of having sniffer dogs at the airport?"
"Do you think guide dogs have become an everyday part of society?"
"Do you believe guard dogs are a neccessary source of protection?"
"If you got lost or trapped would you feel better knowing a search and rescue dog was looking for you?-why"
"Do you think a dog guarding a tradesmans tools would be enough of a deterent to stop a thief?"
"How important are each working dogs?"
Thursday: I have someone in mind for my interview. Her name is Megan Molloy and she runs dog obedience classes called Canine Interaction. I am looking at becoming an instructor myself and I emailed her a couple of weeks ago and she said she was looking for an assistant so last Thursday I went for a look and now every week I get to go down and start getting trained up. So she is the perfect person to interview because I have numerous ways to contact her including her personal email which was one way I was looking at asking her my questions. The sorts of questions I could ask include:
How long have you been a dog trainer?
What intially got you intersted in becoming a trainer?
Have you always been interested in working with dogs?
What keeps you motivated to train dogs?
Who do you think dog training specifically benefits?
Do you think all dogs should be trained at least in basic obedience?
Why is that?
What do you think is the biggest issue people have with untrained dogs?
Do you think untrained dogs are a danger to society, what being the main concern?
Survey questions(either get her to fill out a print out or ask her the questions verbally)
I could ask her mum, Karen who is also a dog obedience trainer.-more inclined to email
Week Six
Monday: Tonight I will email Megan and hopefully her mum, asking the above questions and a copy of the survey. By emailing them I will get my primary source and some valid information directly involved with my topic. Both have at least twelve years experience so I'm sure they will each have some very interesting answers.
Tuesday: I am taping three different shows on television at the moment to get some more information, the shows a send in the dogs, its me or the dog and ceaser milan (a dog trainer). They are all dog training shows and show the benefits of dog training and the problems that have arisen by negelecting to train them. In an episode of Its me or the dog it showed the dangers of an aggressive dog in society.And how its not just dangerous but frustrating for both the owner and the neighbours- especially those with their own dogs.
Week Seven
Tuesday: I have been watching ceaser milan and the more I watch it the more I dont really like his methods, he gets results though which is what I'm most interrested in. The difference between the before and after is astounding it shows how beneficial a well trained dog really is. Victoria from Its Me or the Dog has the best methods because its through positive reinforcement. Which is the way Megan my dog obedience mentor does it. I have a book that im reading called 'Positive Dog Training' by Pamela Dennison. I'm reading it as part of my research as well as for my future career as a dog trainer.
Friday: Basically right now I need to concentrate on interviewing Megan which I have asked her to do next thursday night. I'm going to email her the questions in advance because that way she can be prepared and i can get the best possible response. Im going to use my ipod touch which has a voice recording device.
Week Eight
Tuesday: On Thursday I will be interviewing Megan. I will email her the questions tonight. So far my survey is'nt working out that well because only six people have filled it in and there are a lot more than six people in the class. I think all the names of the people who have done the survey should be put on the board and then evertyone should spend a lesson filling them all out.
Week Nine
Monday: I have done my interview with megan and have the recording on my IPod. I asked her several questions and she gave me some interesting an insightful answers.
Week Ten
Monday: I'm not entirely sure what i'll be doing next but right now i'm trying to get surveys done, and I know I have another discussion coming up soon. I might start planning what I'm going to write in my report just so I'm at least a little bit prepared.
Friday: I am now working on my research evaluation and working towards creating a draft.(1500 words +pictures +graph +map etc.) An outline of which i have to include is:
1. research processes used e.g. books, interviews, internet, ebsco host, news, magazines and experts.
2. you plus chosen capabilities
3. aspects of outcome and relevance to you plus others.
NOTES:
1. I have used the internet to find out things on dog training and types of working dogs and what they do. I have read a couple of books on positive dog training and dog body language. (this helps you identify dangerous situations) I am in the process of conducting a survey. I have interviewed a dog trainer. I have also looked on ebsco host to find articles on my topic.
2. I have chosen my two capabilities: learning and personal development. I have learning because no matter what i'm learning something new. And personal development because I want to become a dog trainer myself and everything I learn through doing this project will help me in the future.
3. I want to be a trainer-thats how the outcome affects me. By doing this project I want to obtain new and recent information on dogs, their part in society and how training benefits people. For others it would be to help people get a better understanding of dogs, what they are capable of and more on training.
I am slightly frustrated because not enough people are filling in my survey, so right now it isnt really adding much to my project. I am unsure how valuable the information is because some of the answeres I got arent really that useful. My next plan is to take them to my work and put them out for customers to fill out but I'll have to ask for permission first. I work at Northside Pet Superstore so the people who come in are generally animal/dog lovers so i should get some good responses. Im working saturday so I'll ask then. But right now I'm pretty happy with my progress. I'm a bit confused still as to what i speciically do next but i have a general idea, i think i'll just ask some more questions to clarify.
Week Eleven
Monday:
The following link is to my outcome DRAFT.
Thursday:
I have completed a draft of my outcome. I am currently working on my reference list, going back and making sure all my images and EBSCO Host articles are referenced correctly. I will then upload a the file as a word document at the bottom of this page. I am going to beinng doing a days work experience at Holdfast dog centre, at times they can have 60 to 70 dogs at a time on the premesis. This will be a good way for me to see a range of dogs with a range of training levels. It wil tie into aspects of my project nicely.
http://holdfastdogcentre.com.au/index.htm
Week Twelve
Monday:
I have done my day at Holdfast and it was very interesting. I saw dogs simply being dogs. But the part that is relevant to me is seeing how the better trained they are the easier they are to handle. One rule is that no dog gets on your lap or jump up for a pat unless it sits first, it's the same with going in and out the gate. This teaches dogs to be more calm when approaching people because their automatic response will then be to sit. Another rule is that all dogs need to be comfortable with being held by their collars. This means its easy to get the dog to go where its supposed to. e.g. there's a seperate area for dogs that are getting too boisterous and to get them through the gate they are led by the collar. If a dog is uncomfortable with this it can turn into a dangerous situation. Whilst I was there a border collie named Billy got too excited and wasnt handling being around so many dogs. My job was then to put him on a lead and walk him around. I had to make sure I walked him away when he became unsettled. I did this by reading his body language. when he looked stressed because a dog was too close or annoying him I would call him away. This would have proved difficult if he wasnt trained. As soon as I called his name he would look at me and snap out of his behaviour to walk with me. He would also sit when I told him to. This way when a dog was getting close I could tell him to sit and get him to focus on me instead. This would be very hard to do with an untrained dog.
Plan:
*Print out emails to and from Megan.
*Upload interview with Megan.
*Complete reference list (below) so far.
*Go through sheets in blue folder and see exactly what I need.
So Far...
- Nine Ebsco Host articles
- Interview with Megan Molloy-(dog trainer)
- Day at Holdfast dog centre
- Read books on training and dog body language
- Draft of Outcome
- Mind map
- Parts of reference list
- Wonder Wheel
- Survey
- Looked at research tools on Moodle-(e.g. CRAP test)
- Pictures and logos
- Reseach Proposal
- Five Capabilities
- Watched television shows
Week Thirteen
Tuesday: I have changed my Hypothesis to :“Trained dogs are useful and benefit society”
This way I can incorporate all the information I've gathered on working dogs and fit it into my research. For my Outcome I am thinking about presenting my key findings on poster paper, with images and writing.Iwould have four posters, one for each guiding question. This way I can be creative and not have to write an essay. For my evaluation I will write one just to keep my eductaion options open. e.g
Week Fourteen
Week Fifteen
REFERENCE LIST: